James Waldo Drake

James Waldo Drake, 73, of Lubbock, Texas passed away on December 26, 2022. He was born in Olney, Texas on February 27, 1949. James Waldo Drake graduated from Coronado High School. He married the love of his life, Sherry Lee Taylor on April 11, 1980, and lovingly supported her throughout life.

James dedicated his working career to landscaping. He worked for and eventually co-owned Drake Lawn Sprinkler with his father L.V. Drake until 2001. At that time, he began working for Texas Tech University in grounds maintenance until he retired in 2018. During his entire career he worked part time at Builders Square and then for Home Depot until his death. James was undoubtedly the hardest working man and did so without complaining. He did this his entire life in order to provide for his family.

James had many joyous moments throughout his life. He played drums (with Buddy Holly before he became famous) and sang in a band during high school. He enjoyed keeping an impeccable lawn; taking care of all the dogs he brought home; and sneaking a beer with his son Les. All though, everybody knew Sherry always knew what he was doing and that he wasn’t as sneaky as he thought. However, his greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends.

James was preceded in death by his brother Gary Lee Drake, his mother Lovella Curtis Drake, and his father, Lee Vaughn Drake.

James is survived by his loving wife, Sherry Lee Drake; his children: Brandi R. Fair and husband Stephen, Leslie Emory Drake and wife Juli, Brandi Almyra McKinnon and husband Kyle, Marchell Elizabeth Lee Drake and spouse Cory, James “Neil” Drake and wife Cassondra; 13 grandchildren: Taylor Morales and husband Juan, Ty Fair, Justin Drake, Paige Fair, Maddison McKinnon, Mallory McKinnon, Lesli Drake, Drake McKinnon, Brody James Pittman, Dagan McKinnon, Corban Drake, Adalyn Drake, Steely Pucket; 4 great-grandchildren: Tracer, Gatlin, Wesson, Berkley; 3 nephews: Brady, Aaron, and Travis Drake and their families; and numerous other relatives and friends.

The family will begin receiving guests on Thursday, December 29, 2022 from 5pm-8pm. A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, December 30, 2022 at 10am in Resthaven Funeral Home Abbey Chapel. Interment will follow in Resthaven Memorial Park.

Please visit the online guest book for shared memories and online tributes.